International Relations: Neo-Realism

Neo-Realism in International Relations

• Neo-realism, also known as structural realism, is a prominent theory in International Relations that emerged as a response to classical realism.
• It focuses on the structural factors in the international system that influence state behavior.

Key Points of Neo-Realism

• The international system is anarchic, meaning there is no overarching world government or authority to enforce rules.
• States are sovereign and act in their own self-interest.
• The balance of power among states is crucial, and states seek to maximize their security and will balance against any power that threatens their security.
• Neo-realism places a strong emphasis on the role of states as the primary actors in international relations, with other factors like ideology or individual leaders considered secondary.
• States are assumed to be rational actors, making decisions based on a careful calculation of costs and benefits.

Key Thinkers and Proponents of Neo-Realism

• Kenneth Waltz is considered the founding father of neo-realism, and his book "Theory of International Politics" (1979) is a seminal work in this field.
• Waltz focused on the structure of the international system as the primary determinant of state behavior.